We had the good fortune of connecting with Steven Marusarz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Steven, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I wanted to get in easy with multiple different firms in LA to see how they all work. There is no better way to learn everything at once then starting somewhere at the bottom, me being design assistant. If you’re even half qualified, you’re in. Now soak up everything you see, talk to everyone, yes, even accounting. Then you can start to put together how you will pick and choose what systems work for you, and create your own business structure that you yourself can, and want to follow!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My way of design is certainly not the popular or easy way to do it! I do not have a specific style or look anyone can show a few Pinterest pics and that’s what I do. I have studied every style going back to the early 1600’s and with a combination of that knowledge, a photographic memory, and emotional intelligence through listening, I create spaces for my clients they have never seen or dreamed. I’ve had so many reactions to my finished product. I live for the moment they walk into their space and jump and scream and laugh, or sometimes even cry. I truly feel I transform blank space into YOU.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite day was recently, I have to start by saying. you must be dressed for the end of this day, keep everyone wondering where you’re going next. I recently took my partner and 2 close friends on a super “LA day” began at Regan Projects in Hollywood, then walked next door the Ralph Pucci showroom for some furniture inspo. Next we head downtown and get dropped off for a quick drink at the Neuehouse in the amazing Bradbury Building. After, you can walk a few blocks to the Broad which always has something super cool. At this point you’re starving, so you’ve already made reservations for the chef’s table experience with Javier (executive chef) at 71 Above for a spectacular display of food and delicious end to an amazingly inspiring day. I plan by my senses, I need pretty things in my face always, great music and sounds, smells and taste are a must, it’s all right there if you’re paying attention. That is my perfect LA day…

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The biggest mentor in my life was a family known as the McSwains. Mike and Dolly saw me at an art gallery opening my freshman year of high school and from that moment on, put courage, creativity, freedom at my very front and center. As a gay man growing up in a small town in Louisiana and going to Catholic school, I was to say the least, discouraged, and feeling like a total nothing. If it weren’t for the offer to come to Mike’s architecture firm every day after school until 5pm and help draw, imagine, source, and shop, I really don’t think I would have made it! I worked for Mike for summer break and we developed a forever bond of pure awesomeness. I will forever love you Mike, Dolly, and of course the kids Larsson and Maxey! Thank you…

Website: https://smidinc.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smidesigns/

Image Credits
Kyle Ortiz photography kyle@kyleortizphoto.com Floral : Nick Beckman (310) 985-5104 instagram @nick.floral

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